Shotton, who celebrated his 32nd birthday last Friday, made his debut for Leek in the 3-2 defeat at Southern League Division One South side Evesham United.

Shotton left SkyBet Championship outfit Middlesbrough in the summer as a free agent after making 75 appearances.

He owns a pub in near Leek so was convinced to play for his local side for Saturday's game, amid an injury crisis at Harrison Park.

Shotton initially agreed to a short-term contract extension at Middlesbrough last term to see out the remainder of the extended season after its delayed finish due to COVID-19.

But after an injury forced him off in the defeat to Bristol City, the defender left the club with three games to go.

He started his career with Stoke City, where he made 48 appearances over an 8-year spell which also took in several loan spells with the likes of Altrincham, Tranmere Rovers, Barnsley, Wigan Athletic and Derby County, who he joined on a more permanent basis in 2015.

He then played 44 times for Birmingham City before signing for Middlesbrough in 2017.